System and method for securing and displaying items for merchandising

ABSTRACT

A system and method for automatically advertising items put on display, as well as protecting those items against theft. The system and method include an event sensor associated with the item and connected to a monitoring and alarm transmitter for initiating an advertising experience on an associated and local graphic display whenever the item is manipulated or approached by a patron. Should the item be removed or taken from its display stand, a wireless alarm is automatically transmitted to a receiver of an authorized person. The system and method also perform a logging function when a patron approaches the item or removes it without taking it away. The system and method also include the ability to provide power to electronic items that are on display.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/693,352 filed Mar. 29, 2007; which application claims priority fromU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/787,864, filed Mar. 31, 2006;the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The current invention relates generally to displaying of items formerchandising purposes and more specifically to a system and method fordisplaying items on a counter or some other structure in a commercialenvironment and providing a graphic display of information relating tothe items at the counter or other structure so that persons approachingor touching such items can receive information relevant to the item,while protecting the item from theft.

2. Description of Related Art

The surveillance of freely presented objects to protect them againsttheft by means of a sensor that is connected to a monitoring and alarmdevice via an electrical line is known in the art. Such items arecommonly displayed on a counter or other structure for viewing byprospective purchasers. When the line or the anti-theft installation ismanipulated or the sensor is removed, the monitoring and alarm devicesets off an audible and visual alarm. Moreover, sales-promoting systemsare known using, for example, endless-loop audiovisual advertising. Theysuffer however from the disadvantage of not allowing perfectly timedadvertising geared to the specific information needs, accordinglyresulting in high coverage losses. It has been proposed to provide amethod and an apparatus of the type initially referred to, which enablesspecific, product-related advertising while at the same time providingfor reliable surveillance of the displayed object and requiring acomparatively small outlay particularly in equipment and installation,by providing an audible alarm at the counter or a visual alarm at thedisplay device when the item is attempted to be removed. The productinformation about the item on display is by means of audiovisualdevices, since this allows a comprehensive information in a particularlyintensive, fast and effective way. The audiovisual product informationmay be output preferably by means of a product information deviceincluding a video data base with a digital player and a connected visualdisplay unit for visual display and, as the case may be, a loudspeakerand/or headset for listening.

Typically, a free presentation includes a plurality of objects. When, asa further action, events are counted and/or date and/or time of the dayare saved, the detections may be stored with date and time of the dayfor later reference in statistical analyses in order to obtaininformation about the attractiveness of the object put on display. Forthis purpose, the monitoring and alarm device includes a storage memoryfor storing the event count and/or date and/or time of the event.

In the absence of a current event being detected, no product-relatedpromotion will be shown, instead general advertising may be shown in themeantime. This may include manufacturer advertising of the displayedobject or market advertising. These advertising periods as well as theaforementioned statistical data obtained may be evaluated and/or sold tothe manufacturers, for example.

Particularly electronic products in the fields of information technologyand audio/video equipment are as a rule freely presented in substantialquantities. When a theft alarm is set off, it is therefore difficult tobe able to locate the site of the theft promptly.

Therefore, it may be useful when, in the case of a theft, an audiblealarm is set off and an at least visual alarm concerning the object tobe secured is produced by the device provided for audiovisual productinformation.

In the case of a theft alarm it is thus possible to output on the visualdisplay unit associated with the stolen object a product-related alarmnotification, thereby enabling the site of the theft to be locatedpromptly. Using the same infrastructure, it is also possible to placethe freely presented items under surveillance, allowing a fast,product-related visualization of the alarm on the one hand and promotionof the items on the other hand, which results in significant costreductions in investment and the obtainment/sale of statistical data.The logging sensor is also capable of tripping further promotionalactions including, for example, actions that also address the remainingsense organs, such as scents, wind and the like. The sensor of thelogging device may be a motion sensor. It operates to start the productinformation when a prospective buyer approaches or stands in front ofthe item on display. No additional action is required in this case.However, the possibility also exists for the sensor of the loggingdevice to be a removal sensor. In this event the product information isnot started until the prospective buyer takes the item in his/her hand,showing an apparent interest in it. False activations as may be causedby a passing customer are thereby avoided. In either event, the productinformation is activated when the prospective buyer is within apredetermined range in the region of the displayed item.

The sensor of the logging device may be a switch, in particular amechanical or capacitive or inductive or optoelectronic or magneticswitch. Particularly advantageously, the sensor of the logging device ispart of the anti-theft sensor arrangement, because this enables multipleuse to be made of existing equipment. Moreover, the anti-theft sensorarrangement preferably includes a sensor affixed to the item to besecured, which sensor is connected to the monitoring and alarm devicethrough a cable wound on a cable retractor, with the sensor of thelogging device being configured to detect when the wound-up cable isbeing pulled off the cable retractor. The cable retractor provides for a“neat” presentation. The sensor may be configured as a magnetic switchcomprising a reed contact mounted on the enclosure of the cableretractor and a magnet fitted to the pull-out type cable. In thisarrangement it is suitable for the magnet fitted to the cable to beconstructed as a cable stop resting against an abutment with the cablein roughly wound-up condition. Such a sensor arrangement affords, amongother things, the advantage of being able to be retrofitted with ease.

While the aforementioned apparatus and method are primarily concernedwith the securing of items of merchandise, they may also find utility inexhibitions, galleries, for example, to provide the viewer withexplanations/information, and, on the other hand, in the securing of theexhibits, such as paintings, against theft. The theft detection sensormay be affixed preferably to the frame or the like, while the loggingsensor is preferably a motion sensor that, on recording a viewer'spresence, starts the output of information.

As should be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that while theforegoing proposed method and apparatus appears generally suitable forits purposes, it still leaves something to be desired from thestandpoint of effective advertising and promotion of the items. In thisregard, while the provision of an audible alarm at the counter (or evena visual alarm on the display device on or adjacent the counter), mayhave the effect of deterring or preventing theft, it creates a negativeatmosphere, e.g., other potential customers in the vicinity of thedisplay may be frightened or otherwise put off by a sounding alarmindicating a theft has occurred. Thus, a need exists for a system andmethod which provides the advantages of enabling persons to readilyexamine an item, to receive information relevant to that item when theypick up or touch the item, while providing against theft by producing awireless signal to authorized personnel located remotely from thedisplay.

All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference intheir entireties.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one aspect of the invention there is provided asystem for displaying an item and providing promotional material aboutthe item on a graphic display in a commercial environment. The item islocated on a counter or other structure in the commercial environment toenable persons to approach and examine the item at that counter or otherstructure.

The system basically comprises an event sensor associated with the item,a monitoring and alarm apparatus and a product information device (e.g.,a graphic display). The event sensor (e.g., a retractable tether orcable with cooperating sensors, or non-contact sensors such as proximitysensors, motion detection sensors, etc.) detects the manipulation of, orapproach of a user to, the item, and wherein the event sensor is coupledto the monitoring and alarm apparatus. The event sensor emits a sensorsignal to the monitoring and alarm apparatus corresponding to themanipulation of, or approach of a user to, the item; and the productinformation device (e.g., a graphic display) is arranged to receive anactivation signal from the monitoring and alarm apparatus when a userapproaches or touches the item at the counter or other structure,whereupon the product information device provides visual information(and also may include audible information) relating to the item; themonitoring and alarm apparatus a transmitter which is arranged toautomatically provide a wireless signal in the event that a personremoves the item from the vicinity of the counter or other structure.The system also includes a receiver (e.g., a cellular telephones, etc.)located remotely of the counter or other structure. The receiver isarranged to receive the wireless signal to alert an authorized person ofthe removal of the item from the vicinity of the counter or otherstructure.

In accordance with a further aspect of this invention, the system alsoincludes the added feature that if the item is an electronic item (e.g.,cellular telephones, cameras, portable DVD/CD players, memory sticks,camcorders, etc.), the system also provides power to the electronic itemwhile detecting the manipulation or removal of the electronic item.

In accordance with another aspect of this invention there is provided amethod for displaying an item and providing promotional material aboutthe item on a graphic display in a commercial environment whiledeterring theft. The method includes displaying the item on a counter orother structure in the commercial environment to enable persons toapproach and examine the item thereat; detecting the manipulation of, orthe approach of a user to, the item; and generating a graphic displayincluding visual or audible information relating to the item inautomatic response to a user approaching or touching the item at thecounter or other structure. This method includes automaticallytransmitting a wireless signal to a remote receiver (e.g., cellulartelephones, etc.) in the event that a person removes the item from thevicinity of the counter or other structure, the receiver being arrangedwhen it receives the wireless signal to alert an authorized person ofthe removal of the item from the vicinity of the counter or otherstructure.

In accordance with a further aspect of this invention, where the item isan electronic item (e.g., cellular telephones, cameras, portable DVD/CDplayers, memory sticks, camcorders, etc.), the method also includesproviding power to the electronic item while detecting the manipulationor removal of the electronic item.

In accordance with even a further aspect of this invention, there isprovided a system for displaying an item and providing promotionalmaterial about the item on a graphic display in a commercialenvironment, the item being located on a counter or other structure inthe commercial environment to enable persons to approach and examine theitem thereat. The system comprises: an event sensor coupled to anelectronic item (e.g., cellular telephones, cameras, portable DVD/CDplayers, memory sticks, camcorders, etc.) via a tether for physicallysecuring an electronic item to the counter or other structure in thecommercial environment to deter unauthorized removal of the item fromthe counter or other structure. The event sensor detects themanipulation of, or approach of a user to, the electronic item, wherebythe event sensor also is coupled to a monitoring and alarm apparatus andwherein the event sensor emits a sensor signal to the monitoring andalarm corresponding to the manipulation of, or approach of a user to,the electronic item. The system also includes a product informationdevice arranged to receive an activation signal from the monitoring andalarm apparatus when a user approaches or touches the item at thecounter or other structure, whereupon the product information deviceprovides visual information relating to the item; and wherein the tethercomprises a power conductor and a sensor signal conductor, whereby thepower conductor and sensor signal conductors have ends that arecontained within a power jack that couples to the electronic item forpowering or charging the electronic item at the counter or otherstructure.

In accordance with another aspect of this invention, there is provided amethod for displaying an electronic item (e.g., cellular telephones,cameras, portable DVD/CD players, memory sticks, camcorders, etc.) andproviding promotional material about the electronic item on a graphicdisplay in a commercial environment. The method comprises: displayingthe electronic item on a counter or other structure in the commercialenvironment to enable persons to approach and examine the electronicitem thereat; powering or charging the electronic item at the counter orother structure; detecting the manipulation of, or the approach of auser to, the item; and generating a graphic display including visual oraudible information relating to the item in automatic response to a userapproaching or touching the electronic item at the counter or otherstructure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be described in conjunction with the followingdrawings in which like reference numerals designate like elements andwherein:

FIG. 1 is a functional diagram of one exemplary system for protectionagainst theft as well as for the automatic output of product informationconstructed in accordance with this invention and which carries out themethod of this invention;

FIG. 1A provides an exemplary product display (e.g., a camera display)using the system and method of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is an alternative exemplary system for protection against theftwhereby a non-contact sensor is used for detecting the manipulation andmovement of a product being protected using the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of an exemplary content managementstructure (CMS) for providing advertisement with the displayed product;

FIG. 3 depicts a powering feature of the system and method of thepresent invention for powering/charging electronic devices on displaywhile providing theft detection and product advertisement initiation;

FIG. 4 is a functional view of the powering/charging feature of thepresent invention whereby power/charge is provided to an electronic itemalong with theft detection and product advertisement;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary power jack for use inthe embodiment of FIG. 4 and shown in the unconnected condition; and

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the power jack of FIG. 5 shown inthe extended condition when connected to the electronic device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the various figures of the drawing wherein likereference characters refer to like parts, there is shown in FIG. 1 asystem and method for displaying one or several items, or mobileelectronic devices, e.g., products, such as cellular telephones,cameras, portable DVD/CD players, memory sticks, camcorders, etc., sothat people can approach the counter or other structure where such itemsare being displayed to examine them and to receive information about theitem or having some relevance to the item via an associated graphicsdisplay located at or adjacent the counter or other structure at whichthe item(s) is(are) located. The display may include audible transducersfor providing sound with the visual display. FIG. 1A provides anexemplary product display, counter or other display (e.g., a cameradisplay) using the system and method of the present invention. In anycase the system and method is arranged so that an alarm will be set offif the item(s) is attempted to be stolen. The system 1 shown in FIG. 1thus serves the dual purpose of protecting items of merchandise put ondisplay or objects 2 against theft and performing a logging functionwhen a person approaches the object 2 or removes the object withouttaking it away. The portion of the system 1 that provides this dualfunction is known as a “contents management system” (CMS) that combinesloss prevention features with advertising. Alternatively, the CMS couldbe configured to just provide advertising.

When a logging function is performed, at least one action, namely aproduct information about the object on display, is started. The objects2, e.g. cell phones, cameras, etc., are freely accessible to theprospective buyer in one or several display shelves 6. Depending on theconfiguration of the apparatus 1, up to 250 items may be subjected tosurveillance and presented by audiovisual devices. When a customer picksup a displayed product, an “event” gets triggered and a shortadvertisement is played out on monitor 15 (e.g., a TFT-monitor). By wayof example only, FIG. 2 depicts a functional diagram of a CMSadvertisement embodiment that uses a plurality of monitors 15A (e.g., aTFT-monitor) and video database and digital player 14A (e.g., DiGiViewerDV-325). Whenever a customer picks up a displayed product, an “event” istriggered and a short advertisement is played out at the TFT monitor 15Avia the VSO3 (e.g., a hardware controller) and a DiGiViewer (e.g., ahardware controller). The DiGiViewer stores the advertisements and theVSO3 provides the interface.

The apparatus 1 includes a theft detection sensor 3 that is affixed tothe object 2 to be secured and is connected to a monitoring and alarmdevice 4 by means of a cable 5. When the sensor 3 responds when removedfrom the object 2 or when the cable 5 is severed or manipulated, a theftalarm is produced. The monitoring and alarm device 4 comprises, amongother things, memory for event or occurrence counts (e.g., objectmanipulation), date and time of occurrence. A further improvement of thealarm device 4 is the provision of a transmitter 4A that provides awireless signal 100 to a store manager or store employee's PDA (personaldigital assistant) or cell phone 4B, or other wireless receiver, or to asecure monitor that alerts the individual that a theft is in progress.The signal also provides identification of the item being stolen and itslocation in the retail establishment. Thus, instead of setting off ageneral alarm, a “silent alarm” or “specified alarm” is provided to theproper personnel that can take swift and appropriate action withoutalarming the other customers in the vicinity.

When a person approaches or removes the object 2 on display, this willbe recorded by a logging device, the ensuing action then being anaudiovisual product information. In the embodiment shown, the loggingdevice includes an “event” or “removal” sensor 7 which is in controllingcommunication with the monitoring and alarm device 4 provided asantitheft device via a cable 8, so that both functions require only oneshared monitoring and alarm device. Although not shown, the monitors 15(or 15A) may be associated with I/O devices that the customer caninteract with and input particular information that can modify theadvertising experience for that customer. By way of example, the I/Odevice may include a card reader, (e.g., a membership card) that allowsthe CMS to customize the advertisement being played out to the customer.

The cable 5 connected to the theft detection sensor 3 is wound on acable retractor 9. The removal sensor 7 is configured to detect when thewound up cable 5 is being unwound from the cable retractor 9. In theembodiment shown the sensor 7 is constructed as a magnetic switch havinga reed contact 11 fitted to the cable retractor enclosure 10 as well asa magnet 12 fitted to the pull-out type cable 5. The reed contact ispreferably embedded in plastic and may be mounted on or in the cableretractor enclosure 10. A cable 8, formed by reed contact conductors8A/8B, provide the monitoring and alarm device 4 with the reed contact11 state. Aside from its function as a permanent magnet 12 for switchingthe reed contact 11 as soon as the magnet 12 leaves its position of restwhen the cable 5 is pulled out, causing the magnetic field at the reedcontact 11 to be interrupted, the magnet 12 has the added function of acable stop for pull-relief of the cable 5 and the connected sensor 3 inthe rest position. In this arrangement, the magnet 12 affixed to thecable 5 functions as a cable stop (or cable-restraining detent, wherebyif the cable 5 is rolled completely out, the magnet acts as a counterdetent), resting in roughly wound-up condition of the cable 5 against anabutment defined by the enclosure 10 in this embodiment. It isparticularly advantageous in this arrangement for the sensor 7 (eventsensor) to be retrofittable easily, to be a low-cost and sturdy item andto require little space.

Other possible “event” sensors may include optical or photosensors,motion sensors, inductive sensors, or even push button sensors (e.g.,for use on large electronic products such as washing machines, etc.; byway of example only, a customer may depress a button on the machine toinitiate product information). Furthermore, by way of example only,approximately 256 sensors can be used in one CMS network. To obtain thedual function of the CMS (e.g., loss prevention and advertisement),approximately 128 products can be secured and promoted at once. SixteenVSL units and 128 sensors are directed to the advertisement functionwhile 16 VSLs and 128 sensors are directed to loss prevention.

For presenting the objects 2 put on display, product information devices13 are in controlling communication with the monitoring and alarm device4. The product information device 13 contains a function block 14 with avideo data base and a digital player as well as a visual display unit15. The dashed line indicates that plural, for example, ten, productinformation devices 13 may be connected to the monitoring and alarmdevice 4.

Depending on which removal sensor 7 was activated, the associatedproduct information is retrieved from the video data base and shown onthe visual display unit 15. A product information device 13 may beassigned to single objects 2 or a plurality, particularly a group, ofsimilar objects on display. How many objects 2 are allocated to aproduct information device 13 depends, inter alia, on the object size.For example, twenty five exhibits 2 may share one product informationdevice 13 with a video data base and a digital player as well as avisual display unit 15.

The modular design enables the apparatus 1 to be configured individuallyin conformity with the given conditions. Thus, an existing apparatus fortheft detection is readily extendable and with relatively little effortto include one or plural product information devices 13 and one orplural removal sensors 7, providing a system enabling the output ofspecific product information. On the other hand, the product informationdevice 13 or several such devices may also be used as standalone withone or several removal sensors 7.

FIG. 1B shows, in an alternative apparatus, an apparatus 1A, wherein anon-contact sensor, e.g., a proximity sensor 7A, is used rather than thetether or cable 5. Such a proximity sensor is placed in the neighborhoodof an object 2 to be protected and the separating distance between thisproximity sensor 7A and the object 2, or between the proximity sensor 7Aand an approaching person (not shown) is determined and stored. Themeasurement of the separating distance can be utilized for, among otherthings, the emission of a signal. This signal may activate anadvertising experience (visual and/or audible and/or tactile) regardinginformation corresponding to the object 2 being approached and/ormanipulated and/or a forewarning of a theft of the object 2. If theobject 2 is removed, and is positioned, for example, within a removaldistance of two meters, it is possible that a registration of thedisplacement can be given. Such a registration can be, for example, theactivation of an LED lamp (not shown, but in the vicinity of the displayshelf where the object 2 was originally placed), which informs theperson making the removal that his/her actions have been detected. If,for example, he/she removes the object 2 to a distance exceeding twometers, i.e., from the proximity sensor 7A, then this would be evaluatedas a theft and an alarm would be emitted to the business personnel. Uponthe approach of a person to the object 2, the possibility exists thatsimultaneously with the forewarning of a possible theft, the informationpertaining to the state of the object 2 could be emitted. The proximitysensor 7A can also be so designed, so that it would react to anytouching or disturbance of the protected object 2. The emission of asignal can, in this way, be released by an approach to, removal of, ordisturbance of the protected object 2.

In particular, the proximity sensor 7A comprises an antenna 17 or thelike, which serves as a detection element. The antenna 17 can beintegrated with a monitoring and alarm apparatus 4 via a receiver 16.The antenna 17 is placed behind the object 2 to be protected and/or evenbehind the presentation display shelve 6.

The proximity sensor 7A serves for the capture of the separatingdistance from the antenna 17 of the proximity sensor 7A between a person(not shown) and/or the object 2 to be protected itself and/or anothersensor 3A placed on the object 2. In this way, it is possible that inconnection with the proximity sensor 7A the monitoring and the alarmapparatus 4 can be adjusted for signaling upon an approach, fordisturbance of the object, or for the removal of the object 2 within apredetermined distance of removal. The adjustment can also includearrangements for theft, designated by the removal of the object 2 byexceeding the predetermined removal distance.

In an exemplary embodiment, a sensor 3A is attached to the object 2 tobe protected. The sensor 3A comprises at least a digital/analog input,e.g., a microswitch or a security film for theft prevention as well asfor surveillance of batteries in a supply battery assembly.

The proximity sensor 7A reacts also to the approach of a person to theantenna 17, wherein the active distance, for example, can be two meters.Thus, registration can be made which indicates whether the personapproaching the antenna 17, the antenna 17 being located near theprotected object 2, is nearing the object 2 and also detects from whatdirection the approach is being made.

Further, this proximity sensor 7A registers by means of the antenna 17,the existing separating distance between the object 2, which has its ownsensor 3A, and the antenna 17. Thereby, it is possible to detect whetheror not the protected object 2 has been removed from the display case 6and to what distance it has been displaced from its original displayedposition. As mentioned previously, for example, a registration signalcan be emitted, in order to inform the user that the action, possiblyhis own, has been detected and registered.

Especially, by the responsive action of the proximity sensor, i.e. theseparating-distance sensor 7A, it is possible that an object-specificadvertisement and information for a viewer can be initiated. In a caseof a more remote distancing of the protected object 2 from the objectstorage position (this being on the display case or shelf 6) a theftalarm can be sounded or displayed to the appropriate business personnel.

Under certain circumstances, it is possible that additional trackingmeasures could be undertaken, e.g., a pursuit of the removed object 2could be carried out within the confines of the business withcorresponding signaling. In such tracking actions, the sensor 3A has afunction which may be compared with that of an integrated circuit whichis implanted on such an object 2, e.g., a transponder chip (RFID, RadioFrequency Identification).

In addition, the distance sensor 7A can register, by the use of theantenna 17, whether an approaching person is permitted or not, to bepresent in certain places or on certain equipment. Permitted personscarry an electronic key 18 with them, which sends correspondingcharacteristic data to the antenna 17 and therewith to the receiver 16.The receiver 16 can transmit these data to a supervisory database or tobusiness personnel via the monitoring and alarm apparatus 4. Thus, thereis provided a wireless testing of legitimacy with specially effectivecapacity for transmission.

The possibility also exists, that the distance sensor 7A possesses aplurality of antennae 17 at one station of supervision. These antennaewould be so ordered, that, in at least one instance, even the removalapparatus for the taking of the protected object 2 could be detected. Itis also possible that several antennae, could be placed in apportioneddistances apart, for instance at intervals of five meters, within amarket or within such a spatial enclosure, in order that a spatialpursuit of the protected object, especially for tracking purposes, couldbe carried out.

To the monitoring and alarm apparatus 4, a plurality of distance sensors7A can be associated, whereby an antenna for each monitoring station canbe sent to one receiver 16.

It should also be mentioned, that for the approach/disturbance sensoreven the conductivity of the skin and an electrostatic field can be madeuse of. In this operation, a transmission of data by means of the skinand otherwise a recognition of the change of an electrical field by aperson is possible. To implement such an arrangement, for example, atransmitter integrated into an electronic key 18 (FIG. 1B) can producean electrostatic field and radiate its signal onto the skin of a person,whereby this can even function without direct skin contact. By means ofmodulation of data on the signal voltage, which spreads itself over theentire skin surface, information or data can be transmitted, forinstance, which provides identification. From a practical standpoint,this can be constructed with the following background:

In the case of an active data transmission, by means of the skin, small,bodily-carried transmitters produce an electrical field by means ofwhich, the coded data can be sent directly or capacity-wise to one ormore receivers. The transmitted information can, in this way, identifyan object or a person.

The reception of such signals is, however, only possible if the senderis equipped with apparatuses which are close to the body. As a result,it is possible that immediately circuitry processes are released. Thisprocess, or processes, can however, be reversed. If these apparatusesare removed, and thereby the transmission is broken off, then,appropriately, an immediate switch action occurs. Even the alteration ofan electrical field by means of an approaching person, or the entry of aperson into an electrostatic field can be detected in this manner. Inthis way, the approach of a person can be passively recognized, whichcan give rise to appropriate action. For instance, this can be used forthe transmission of the object information.

Excluding the active transmission of object information (advertising),passive detection of the approach of a person can be done withoutidentification of the receiver.

If on the object 2, which is to be protected, for instance, a sensor 3Ais installed with a transmitter, then upon theft of the object 2, thelocation of the stolen object 2 can be detected. This is possible,because the transmitter is the installed on the (now, stolen) object 2and communicates to the skin surface of the person and thereby builds anelectrostatic field. This field, by means of a receiver, which may beone of many in distributed in different locations in the, for instance,business can be received, so that a search of the stolen object 2 ispossible. In this way, by means of equipping the proximity sensor 7Aand/or the sensor 3, which latter is installed on the object 2 to beprotected, with a transmitter, an electrostatic field can be produced,which field can be employed in various manners. The electrostatic fieldcan, as already has been described, be communicated to the skin of aperson and used, for example, for the transmission of data. Otherwise,it is also possible that an evaluation of the change of an electrostaticfield, which change has been instigated by a person, can be used for therelease of an appropriate action.

The sensor 7A can serve as a special proximity sensor wherein it will beinstalled as an instrument sensitive to a separating distance. Such aproximity sensor would be placed in the neighborhood of an object to beprotected and the separating distance between the proximity sensor andthe object, or between the sensor and an approaching person isdetermined and registered.

The measurement of separating distance can be utilized for, among otherthings, the emission of a signal. The eventual use could include theactivation of reporting a product specific item of information and/or aforewarning of a theft. If the product is removed, and lies, forinstance, within a removal distance of two meters, it is possible that aregistration of the displacement can be given. Such a registration couldbe, for example, the activation of an orange LED lamp, which wouldinform the person making the said removal that his action has beenregistered. If, for example, he removes the object to a distanceexceeding two meters, i.e. from the proximity sensor, then this would beevaluated as theft and an alarm released.

Upon the approach of a person to the said object, the possibilityexists, that simultaneously with the forewarning, the said informationregarding the state of the product could be emitted. The proximitysensor can also be so designed, that, it would react to any touching ordisturbance of the said protected object. The emission of an action can,in this way, be released by an approach to, removal of, or disturbanceof the protected object.

It should be understood that it is within the broadest scope of thepresent invention to include the use of the non-contact sensor 7A ofFIG. 1B into the system depicted in FIG. 1. Thus, the non-contact sensor7A (FIG. 1B) can be substituted for the tethered configuration of FIG.1.

FIGS. 3-6 depict another feature of the system and method of the presentinvention: charging or powering the electronic devices on display. Thus,not only is theft protection and advertisement provided by the systemand method of the present invention but so is the powering of thesedevices. By way of example only, eight cellular phones that aredisplayed can be powered through a switch box 20 which is connected to asingle power supply. Under the control of a multiplexer 22 connected tothe CMS, the switch box 20 alternates the charging of the 8 phones everypredetermined number of minutes (this time interval can be modified asdesired) so that a smaller power supply can be used (2 pole). The eightcell phones may be connected to the switch box 20 via eight, 6-poleconductors wherein the switch box 20 is controlled via eight, 4-poleconductors. Alternatively, constant charging of all products could bepossible as well with a stronger power supply. Each displayed cell phoneis connected to one sensor (e.g., via adhesive pad) which secures andcharges the product.

Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 3-6 whichstill utilizes the CMS (including product information devices 13),transmitter 4A and other wireless receivers 4B, as shown in FIG. 1.However, in this embodiment, the ability to power the electronic deviceon display, as well as the theft alert detection are provided via thetether. In particular, as shown in FIG. 4, the theft detection sensorcomprises proximity sensor or reed switch 42A (as will be discussed indetail later) with cable 5 providing the sensor signal path. Anelectronic device cradle 27 holds the electronic device 2. An aperture(not shown) in the cradle 27 permits the insertion of a power jack 29into the electronic device 2 to keep it powered. A pair of fingers orcoupling members 30A and 30B (e.g., molded to the back of the cradle 27)secure the power jack 29 as will be discussed in detail later. It shouldbe noted that the back surface 31 of the shelf display 6 is shortened topermit the use of the cradle 27.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the power jack 29 in the unconnectedstate. The jack 29 comprises an outer housing 32 having a pair ofapertures 34A and 34B on opposing sides of the housing 32.Concentrically and slidably mobile within the housing 32 is an electrodeelement 36 for supporting power electrode 38 which receives powerthrough power conductor 24. The base of the electrode element 36 iscoupled to the base of the housing 32 using a spring 40. A proximitysensor, or reed switch 42A (attached to the inside base surface of thehousing 32) having an associated sensor conductor 5 includes acorresponding element 42B (e.g., magnet) attached to the base surface ofthe electrode element 36. In order to connect the power jack 29 to theelectronic device 2, store personnel need to pull the electrode element36 out of the housing 32 and to allow the fingers 30A and 30B to passthrough the respective apertures 34A/34B as shown in FIG. 6. This can beaccomplished by the person pressing the fingers 30A/30B at the neck 44(see FIG. 4) to spread the ends of the fingers 30A/30B and to allow thefingers 30A/30B to pass through the apertures 34A/34B and to capture thebottom surface of the electrode element 36 against the bias of thestretched spring 40. The electrode 38 can be inserted through theaperture (not shown) in the cradle 27 and into the power receptacle (notshown) of the electronic device 2. In this position, the proximitysensor or reed switch 42A is displaced away from the correspondingelement 42B. In this position, the signal conductor 5 conveys a“non-theft” condition to the alarm device 4. As a result, the electronicdevice 2 is being powered while an “non-theft” condition signal isprovided to the alarm device 4 and if a customer grasps the electronicdevice 2 and manipulates it, the removal sensor 7 is activated toinitiate the product advertisement. Should a thief attempt to disconnectthe electronic device 2 by jerking the device 2 away from the power jack29, or being savvy enough to squeeze the fingers 30A/30B together torelease the power jack 29, the electrode element 36 snaps towards thebase surface of the housing 32 due to the spring 40 bias, and theproximity sensor 42A detects the corresponding element 42B and reportsthe theft condition. Thus, by use of the configuration shown in FIGS.3-6, powering/charging, anti-theft and product advertisement initiationare accomplished.

It should be understood that it is within the broadest scope of thepresent invention to include the powering or charging feature of anelectronic item along with the automated productadvertisement-initiated-upon-manipulation of/approach to the electronicitem, independent of the automatic transmission of the wireless signal100 from the transmitter 4A to the remote receiver 4B (FIG. 1).

Thus, some of the advantages of the system and method of the presentinvention are:

-   -   reduces staffs work load (explaining products), helps them focus        on real service;    -   end customers do not have to wait to get product information in        case staff is busy;    -   quick and detailed product information at a glance;    -   helps customer make a qualified decision about which product        suits his needs best;    -   extended offers (accessories) for individual products;    -   retailer can rent out advertisement space to manufacturer        (during special promotions or “stand-by mode”);    -   no need anymore for “hard-copy” price labeling, product        information display; therefore more products can be displayed        (unless hard-copy labeling is required by law); and    -   possibility of customer-oriented display of secured products        together with product promotion.

Furthermore, it is within the broadest scope of the present invention toinclude the creation of statistics (e.g., via CheckPro Manager™) usingthe CMS as to which product was picked up the most, hit list, etc). Thisalso includes the creation of hit lists regarding product interest ofcustomers/sales data/etc. in connection with merchandise planning andcontrol systems and CheckPro Manager™ data. The statistics ad hit listscan be provided via Ethernet.

Because the electronics industry is constantly developing new hightechnology products and due to the complexity of the offered products,it is becoming more and more difficult for an end customer todistinguish between displayed items which one would serve his/her needsbest. However, by playing customized advertisements as soon as theproduct gets picked up by the customer, this distinction becomes mucheasier.

It is within the broadest scope of the present invention to include thesecurement of non-electronic devices while promoting them at the sametime (e.g., bottles, razors, etc.).

While the invention has been described in detail and with reference tospecific examples thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the artthat various changes and modifications can be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope thereof.

1. A method comprising: displaying a plurality of merchandise items at amerchandise display allowing a consumer to handle the merchandise items;providing audio video information at the merchandise display, whereinthe audio video information is based on one or more of the plurality ofmerchandise items; detecting a possible theft when one of themerchandise items is removed from the display; generating an alarm whenthe possible theft is detected; and updating the audio video informationfrom a location remote to the merchandise display.
 2. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising: establishing a remote communication linkbetween the merchandise display and the location remote to themerchandise display, wherein the updating is performed over the remotecommunication link.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein the remotecommunication link is established over the internet.
 4. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the updating the audio video information furthercomprises: receiving at the merchandise display update information thatwas entered in a in a web browser at the location remote to themerchandise display; and updating the audio video information based, atleast in part, on the update information.
 5. The method of claim 1further comprising: establishing a secure communication link with themerchandise display by encrypting data transmitted over the securecommunication link, wherein the updating is performed over the securecommunication link.
 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the securecommunication link is established over one or more of: a wirelessnetwork and an electronic network.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein theupdating the audio video information further comprises: replacing one ormore old audio visual advertisements with one or more new audio visualadvertisements.
 8. The method of claim 7 wherein the old audio visualadvertisements are removed from a memory at the merchandise display andthe new audio visual advertisements are received from the locationremote to the merchandise display and stored in the memory.
 9. Themethod of claim 1 wherein the updating the audio video informationfurther comprises: replacing audio visual information of a firstmerchandise item with a different updated audio visual information ofthe first merchandise item.
 10. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: attaching each of the plurality of merchandise items to acorresponding tether to prevent the theft of a corresponding merchandiseitem; and wherein the updating the audio video information furthercomprises: removing a first merchandise item from a first tether;attaching a second merchandise item to the first tether; and replacingaudio visual information of a first merchandise item with a differentupdated audio visual information of the second merchandise item.
 11. Amerchandise display comprising: a display area for displaying aplurality of merchandise items, wherein the display area is configuredto allow customer handling of the merchandise items; detection logicconfigured to detect the removal of one of the merchandise items fromthe merchandise display; alarm logic configured to generate an alarmresponsive to the detection logic detecting the removal of one of themerchandise items from the merchandise display; an audio visual displaydevice; display logic configured to retrieve initial audio data andinitial image data corresponding to one or more of the merchandise itemsfrom a database of audio data and image data, wherein the display logicis configured to play the initial audio data and initial image data onthe audio visual display device; and update logic configured to receiveupdated audio data and updated image data from a remote location and toupdate the database with the updated audio data and updated image data.12. The merchandise display of claim 11 wherein the database contains afirst set of audio data and image data associated with a firstmerchandise item and a second set of audio data and image dataassociated with a second merchandise item, wherein the update logic isconfigured to receive a third set of audio data and updated image dataassociated with the first merchandise item from the remote location,wherein the update logic is configured to update the database byreplacing the first set of audio data and image data with the third setof audio data and image data without modifying the second set of audiodata and image data.
 13. The merchandise display of claim 11 wherein themerchandise display is configured to establish a communication link withthe remote location, wherein the update logic is configured to receivethe updated audio data and updated image data over the communicationlink.
 14. The merchandise display of claim 13 wherein the communicationlink is a secure communication for transmitting cryptographic data. 15.The merchandise display of claim 11 further comprising: a memoryconfigured to store the database, wherein the display logic isconfigured to access the memory.
 16. The merchandise display of claim 11wherein the update logic is configured to receive the updated audio dataand updated image data over an internet communication link.
 17. Themerchandise display of claim 11 wherein the update logic is configuredto receive the updated audio data and updated image data from a webbrowser running on a remote device at the remote location.
 18. Themerchandise display of claim 11 wherein the detection logic isconfigured to detect a handled merchandise item that is not beingremoved from the merchandise display, and wherein the display logic isconfigured to retrieve audio data and image data corresponding thehandled merchandise item from the database, and wherein the displaylogic is configured to play audio data and image data corresponding thehandled merchandise item on the audio visual display device.
 19. Themerchandise display of claim 11 wherein the detection logic isconfigured to detect no merchandise item that is being handled at themerchandise display, and wherein the display logic is configured toretrieve default audio data and default image data from the database,and to play the default audio data and the default image data on theaudio visual display device.
 20. The merchandise display of claim 11further comprising: a plurality of tethers, wherein at least one of theplurality of merchandise items is connected to one of the tethers,wherein the detection logic is configured to detect the removal of oneof the tethers from one of the merchandise items, and wherein the alarmlogic is configured to generate an alarm responsive to the detectionlogic detecting the removal of one of the tethers from one of themerchandise items.